Defeating Bejenaru will open doors for Mchunu

Thabiso "The Rock" Mchunu is not only concerned about winning the WBC International cruiserweight belt from Constantin Bejenaru when they collide in Connecticut, US, tomorrow (SA time).

Mchunu, who is rated No 14 by the WBC, wants to get back into challenging for the actual WBC belt which is currently held by Mairis Briedis of Latvia.

"Thabiso wants to get back into the cruiserweight mix. The division has imploded with the World Boxing Super Series. He knows too well that winning the WBC International title will set him up for future bouts to propel him to the top of the division and ultimately contend for championship bouts," said Mchunu's trainer Sean Smith.

"He is up for the challenge and ready to make an impact."

Mchunu, who holds the SA and ABU belts, was at some time at the doorstep of fighting for the WBC title.

He was stopped in the 11th round by Ilunga "Junior" Makabu in their official title elimination bout in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, two years ago.

Mchunu fought his way back and won both the SA and African Boxing Union (ABU) titles by defeating Johnny Muller at Emperors Palace in June.

Mchunu's victory, especially for the ABU belt, earned him recognition from the WBC ratings committee, which brought him back to the top in its ratings. The ABU is an affiliate of the WBC.

This weekend, Mchunu returns to Mohegan Sun and Casino in Uncasville - the venue where he made his impressive debut in the US where he defeated former heavyweight top contender Eddy Chambers over 10 rounds in 2013.

Mchunu has everything in his favour to defeat Bejenaru, who is relatively inexperienced after 12 wins.

Bejenaru has boxed 64 rounds in 12 fights, while Mchunu has fought 132 rounds in 21 bouts with 18 wins, 11 KOs and three losses.